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Cool tools really work.
A cool tool can be any book, gadget, software, video, map, hardware, material, or website that is tried and true. All reviews on this site are written by readers who have actually used the tool and others like it. Items can be either old or new as long as they are wonderful. We post things we like and ignore the rest. Suggestions for tools much better than what is recommended here are always wanted.
iFixIt Pro Tech Toolkit - i’ve been tinkering with electronics such as game consoles, phones, computers, and laptops for a long time. this is insanely useful for that purpose because it comes with almost any bit for electronics, multiple tweezers and spudgers, a high-quality metal driver, and pretty much everything you need (besides the parts) to work on electronics, all bundled up in a high-quality and compact case. i’ve used this kit to repair my computer, and disassemble my various game consoles and phones many times. overall, as a tinkerer, i couldn't imagine living without this kit.
Threddies Superstretch Cotton Blend Headbands (Black) - as an avid basketball fan and recreational player (with long hair i might add), this headband is crucial for keeping sweat and hair out of my eyes while practicing. it's very soft and comfortable on my head, and because of the stretchiness, it doesn't feel like it is going to fall off or like it is too tight. without it, I wouldn't be able to comfortably play and practice my favorite sport.
Blonde (Album) - i've been listening to this album on repeat recently, more specifically the song "Nikes". this album is amazing and especially great to listen to when you're sad, mad, or feeling any kind of emotions. you can cry your eyes out to this, lay down and stare at the ceiling/sky to this, or even just use it as background music to help your productivity while working. in fact, i'm listening to it while writing this now. my personal favorite songs from this album are "Nikes", "Self Control", and "Futura Free."
DIGITAL
FL Studio 20 Producer Edition - this software may be expensive, but it is extremely versatile and helped me to discover my hobby of music creation. you can do some amazing things with this software and make some really nice sounds too. in particular, i'm having fun being able to mix and master my own vocals and create my own instrumentals using this tool in conjunction with a midi piano.
Looperman - a website with thousands of free audio loops and samples, free acapellas, and free plugins to use in the music you create. i use the free loops all the time either for inspiration or just to play around with for fun. as a highschooler without much money, having free access to all these high-quality material really makes a difference in the quality of my music creations, and has made it easier for me and others to get into this hobby without spending that much money.
INVISIBLE
“Nothing in life is promised except death. If you have the opportunity to play this game of life you need to appreciate every moment. A lot of people don't appreciate the moment until it's passed” — Kanye West.
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